New Tesla "Chill Mode" Takes It Easy

Electric cars come with a number of potential advantages over their fossil fuel-burning counterparts. You never have to visit a gas station again unless you feel like oversized soda and questionable hot dogs. A big advantage is the instant torque that electric motors can provide, but what if you want a less aggressive ride? Don't trade in your Model S for a Nissan Leaf just yet, because Tesla has just rolled out "Chill Mode."

You can see the option for this new feature at about 3:15 in the video above. Coming with the 2017.44 update, "Chill Mode" is effectively the complete opposite of Ludicrous Mode.

Instead of arming you with the most acceleration power possible, "Chill Mode" tons all that of that down to provide more gradual acceleration. This is good for people who aren't prepared for that kind of instant torque or they simply want a ride that is perhaps a little more comfortable for your newborn and grandma.

There's no specific mention of just how "chill" this new mode will be, so you'll have to find out for yourself by taking it for a ride around the block. Presumably, this less aggressive acceleration profile should also help with extending the range on your electric vehicle too.

Tesla describes the new option thusly:

You can now choose between two acceleration options in your vehicle: Chill and Standard. Chill makes acceleration more gradual – ideal for smoother driving and a gentler ride for your passengers.

To enable Chill Mode, go to Controls -> Controls -> Driving. Under "Acceleration," you will now find the option to toggle from "Standard" to "Chill."

The new update also pushes out a new feature called "Use Easy Entry" too. This is similar to what you find a lot of luxury cars these days. Basically, when you park and turn the car off, the driver's seat moves backwards and the steering wheel moves upwards. This makes it easier for you to get out of (and back into) the car.

Find it under Controls -> Settings -> Driver Profiles. Tick the box for "Use Easy Entry." The first time you use it, it will ask you set where the easy entry position should be for the steering wheel and driver's seat.